Spark Minda, Ashok Minda Group established in 1958, is an India-based automotive parts manufacturer which has distinguished itself by its community care and outreach programmes. The company believes that in today’s world, an organisation is not just judged simply by its market capitalisation, but also by what contributions they have made to society, and the impact of these contributions. There is also a deep-abiding belief that being community-minded benefits a company not just in terms of branding, but also in terms of credibility and reputation.
Undertaken by the Spark Minda Foundation housed in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) wing of the Group, Spark Minda community initiatives are formulated after the Group conducts a needs analysis which takes an in-depth look at what the community needs. The analysis is conducted in nearby communities both in areas near their factory location as well as other identified areas. Special programmes and projects are then formulated according to the particular needs of these selected communities.
Spark Minda, Ashok Minda Group, founded in 1958, is a leading Indian automotive parts manufacturer that integrates corporate social responsibility (CSR) into its core values. The company believes that an organization’s impact on society is as crucial as its market success, enhancing both credibility and reputation.
Community-Centric Initiatives
The Spark Minda Foundation, the CSR arm of the group, conducts needs assessments in communities near its factories and other identified areas. Based on these assessments, customized community programs are developed to address specific needs. The company collaborates with NGOs such as GlobalHunt Foundation, Jaipur Foot, and Ambuja Cement Foundation to expand the reach and effectiveness of its initiatives.
Areas of Focus and CSR Vision
Under its CSR Vision 2020, Spark Minda focuses on six key intervention areas: Livelihood Promotion, Education, Care for Persons with Disabilities, Community Infrastructure, Health and Wellbeing, and Environmental Protection. The company also responds to emerging needs, such as disaster relief efforts. All community programs follow standardized procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Impact Measurement and Review Mechanisms
To assess the success of its initiatives, Spark Minda conducts quarterly and annual reviews, as well as impact assessments. The CSR department, part of the Group Human Resource division, oversees all programs, ensuring strategic alignment with company values. Dedicated teams handle both Business Level CSR and Community Level CSR, with 19 representatives in India and 6 internationally, while 16 full-time employees work directly at the grassroots level.
Employee Engagement and Volunteerism
Spark Minda actively involves its executives and employees in CSR activities through volunteer programs, reinforcing CSR as a core corporate value. This hands-on approach strengthens the company’s commitment to sustainable community development while fostering a culture of social responsibility within the organization.
